Upon their arrival at a Mexico City hotel, England was met with a rowdy welcome ahead of their World Cup last-16 clash against Mexico this Sunday.
In an attempt to maintain privacy, the English team had hoped to keep their location under wraps after Mexico fans had previously disrupted Ecuador’s team with loudspeakers, horns, and motorcycles before their last-32 match, which ended in a 2-0 victory for Mexico.
However, as England’s bus pulled up to the hotel, they were greeted by hundreds of fans, with many booing while others chanted “The schedule change hits like a kick in the stomach,” Notably, at least one supporter was spotted holding up an England jersey amidst the crowd.
Increased Security Measures
Following the earlier events of the week, security outside the hotel has been ramped up, a move prompted by complaints from Ecuador’s football federation. Moreover, heightened security has been observed throughout the city after four fatalities were reported during the celebrations that followed Mexico’s triumph over Ecuador.
Match Details and Scheduling Controversy
Coached by Thomas Tuchel, England is set to face Mexico at the iconic Azteca Stadium, with the match kicking off at 6 PM local time (1 AM Monday in the UK). FIFA had considered advancing the kick-off time due to a forecast of storms, but after five-and-a-half hours of deliberation on Friday, they opted to retain the original timing.
Mexico expressed strong discontent over the idea of rescheduling the match less than 48 hours before it was set to begin, leaving the English Football Association astonished by the potential change. “We have to change the entire plan. I don’t like it at all.” remarked Mexico’s manager, Javier Aguirre. “We have to change the entire plan. I don’t like it at all.”
Challenges in the Azteca
Facing a hostile reception is just one of the hurdles England must navigate in Mexico City. The Azteca Stadium is situated over 2,000 meters above sea level, which means players will have to adjust to the diminished oxygen levels.
Historically, Mexico has an impressive record at the Azteca, suffering only two defeats in 89 matches there, with 70 victories and 17 draws. They remain unbeaten in their last 10 World Cup encounters at this venue.
